The 6-foot-4, 295-pound lineman was named first team all-area on the offensive line in South Carolina as a sophomore and junior. He said he was recruited to play guard at Georgia Tech.

The lineman, who said Georgia Tech first showed interest his sophomore season, talked with head coach Paul Johnson on Tuesday night. The coach asked whether he offered a scholarship, would Whitley be in.

Whitley said he has visited Georgia Tech numerous times in the past two years, but he won’t stop taking trips now that he’s committed. Instead, Whitley plans on going to the North Carolina game on Sept. 21.

“I just love the coaches and the atmosphere, and you can’t beat the education,” Whitley said.

He has been a key piece of North Augusta’s offense in the past few years. The Yellow Jackets have already scored 88 points this season, taking a 2-0 record into Friday night’s game at Greenbrier.

North Augusta often uses a fast-tempo attack with big passing and rushing plays. At Georgia Tech, Whitley will be part of a run-heavy option system.

“I think I fit real well,” he said. “I have a little work to do, but I’ll be perfect in that offense.”